Step into Heliopolis and discover not only a city, but the story of how a city is imagined, built, and sustained. Explore the vision of Baron Empain, who transformed a stretch of desert into one of Cairo’s most distinctive neighborhoods, and uncover the planning, architecture, and stories that shaped its identity.
Along the way, we will trace the myths, memories, and narratives woven into Heliopolis—from its early foundations to the present day—through its landmarks, urban fabric, and preservation efforts.
As part of the experience, participants will join the "Build Your Own City" workshop led by researcher and visual storyteller Zeina El Bakry. Through journaling, collage, and creative exploration, participants will collect, reinterpret, and assemble the elements that make a city, creating their own personal urban narrative.
Zeina Elbakry is a visual story teller and researcher based in Cairo, Heliopolis. She believes it is through the stories once told that we write the stories to come, weaving together research, handmade art, and analogue techniques in pursuit of self-expression.
This tour is presented in collaboration with Torasna.
Tour Highlights:
• Baron Palace
• Basilica Church
• Heliopolis Company for Housing & Development
• Ghurnata
Along the way, we will trace the myths, memories, and narratives woven into Heliopolis—from its early foundations to the present day—through its landmarks, urban fabric, and preservation efforts.
As part of the experience, participants will join the "Build Your Own City" workshop led by researcher and visual storyteller Zeina El Bakry. Through journaling, collage, and creative exploration, participants will collect, reinterpret, and assemble the elements that make a city, creating their own personal urban narrative.
Zeina Elbakry is a visual story teller and researcher based in Cairo, Heliopolis. She believes it is through the stories once told that we write the stories to come, weaving together research, handmade art, and analogue techniques in pursuit of self-expression.
This tour is presented in collaboration with Torasna.
Tour Highlights:
• Baron Palace
• Basilica Church
• Heliopolis Company for Housing & Development
• Ghurnata
